Car Review: The New BMW X5

the new standard

There are many new SUVs but the new X5 from BMW is not one of them. Not only does it do justice to the BMW name, it opens up a whole new dimension of driving. Discover the world's first SAV: the BMW X5.

The X5 is a new breed on its own, in fact, it belongs to a category on its own: SAV- The Sports Activity Vehicle. Only a totally new approach brings genuinely innovative results.

You can always expect a superior amount of driving pleasure from BMW. The BMW X5 is no exception. I am quite sure it will surpass everyone's expectations.

Only the best will do, for example; the state-of-the-art 4.4 liter eight-cylinder X5 engine accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in less than 8 seconds. This concentration of power is transferred to the street by a chassis with the utmost in modern control systems such as the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). The high-performance brake system brings it to a halt with just as much feeling as when it accelerates.

On the one hand, it is a complete muscular picture that leaves no doubt regarding its power and energy. On the other hand, it is evident that the X5 is geared to meet specific standards.

And the interior? The X5 also takes another route in this department because it's designed for people who lead active lives and expect the very best. The X5 delivers a rich look and fine detailing that we've come to expect in high-dollar Bimmers.

The dashboard moldings employ the usual luxurious-looking and textural polymers. The wood veneer shines, there's lots of it, and it's the real McCoy. A full set of instruments in a prominent binnacle dominates the dashboard and the radio and climate controls are positioned high enough to be easily seen and employed.

With its unitized body and independent suspension, the X5 sets a new standard in terms of driving dynamics and safety. The Sports Activity Vehicle was developed from the ground up specifically for this new market and utilizes the latest standard in four-wheel-drive technology to achieve the highest level of driving performance and comfort.